Many people chose to spend a night in Sorong before their diving cruise to ensure they get there on time in case their flight gets cancelled or delayed. In the article below, we give you suggestions on what to do, where to stay and where to eat. You have one day, and you need to visit the best places? Then, this is the guide for you, which will make your transit day more interesting. Sorong has a few activities to keep you busy, and the locals are friendly and welcoming.

Sorong is located in the Indonesian province of West Papua. The name ‘Sorong’ itself has a meaning which is, ‘deep and turbulent seas’. The city consists of hill stations, mountains, valleys, forests etc.

Breakfast at Pasar Jimbutan Puri

Start your day with a delicious local breakfast. For this purpose, you can visit the Pasar Jimbutan Puri. It is a local market from where you can get the best fish to eat. Fishing is their most important occupation which makes fish the most eatable food. The ideal time to visit the market for breakfast is 07:30 am to 09:00 am.

Visit the local markets in Sorong

At mid-morning, you have the perfect timing to visit the local markets of Sorong. The markets represent Indonesian culture in the best way possible. You can buy traditional clothes, arts, and crafts as souvenirs from there. This activity will provide you with a great shopping experience and a clear outlook of the culture of West Papua. You will see how friendly Sorong’s inhabitants are.

Shopping for your last minutes’ trips necessities

In the afternoon, the temperature of the Sorong is high. So, it is advisable to avoid direct contact with the sun. It is an excellent time to go shopping and buy the last provisions you need for your trip. Saga supermarket has a good food selection ( even western food). It also in one of the few places in Sorong where you can buy beer and alcohol. It is located near the Buddhist temple.

You might also want to buy a Telkomsel sim card to give you internet access during your trip.

 

Visiting the Buddhist temple

The Buddhist Temple has a great view. And this must be your next destination. This place has a spiritual association as well. So, if you want to enjoy the spiritual side of this city, you know where to go. Moreover, it has great architecture.

TIP: If you use google map to find locations, be aware that the location of the pagoda is wrong on google map. So better to ask the locals

 

Diner in Sorong

Going for dinner at a local warung will definitely sum up your entire day at Sorong. I recommend Tuna Baba. A grilled tuna restaurant that is very popular with the locals.

It is located almost opposite to Fave hotel.

It is quite affordable, and the Tuna and seafood are delicious

 

Hotels in Sorong

Sorong doesn’t have any luxury hotels. The two best hotels in Sorong are Swiss Belhotel and Fave hotel. Fave is a bit more modern, has better rooms and is closer to the airport. Swiss Belhotel has a pool and is located closer to the town center

Rates starting at US$50. Compare the best rates and book your stay on Hotel Combined

 

Transport in Sorong

Taxis ( cars with drivers) from the airport are readily available at the exit of the airport. Cost is 100000 to most places in town.

While in town, I used the Bemos. Those are small public minibuses that run along the main street of Sorong. They are very easy and convenient to use, especially if you have google map The price is 5000 Rpies per trip per person.

It is also possible to hire a car and a driver for the day.

 

You are no ready to go on a cruise. Click here for a review of my cruise on the Ilike liveaboard from Sorong to Kaimana.

Check out my  review of the best dives sites in Nothern Rajat Ampat and Misool and Triton Bay in Kaimana

Have you been to Sorong?

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